WR Ricky Pearsall – University of florida
6-FOOT-1 | 189LBS
Career Stats: 159REC 2,420YD 14TD – 21rush 253yd 5td
Pros
Ricky Pearsall is perhaps best know for his one-handed and spectacular catches. One of Pearsall’s biggest strengths is his ability to utilize his 99th-percentile catch radius and strong hands to pluck passes well outside of his frame. Pearsall also exhibits tremendous body control to put himself in position to make such picturesque receptions.
Not to be undersold is Pearsall’s ability as an innovative and instinctive route-runner. Pearsall utilizes short-area quickness and feints to create separation as a quarterback-friendly target in both man and zone coverages. Pearsall is sharp in and out of his breaks which, when paired with his broad catch radius, makes for a difficult assignment for opposing defensive backs.
The spectacular catches and well-run routes are not exclusively performed out of the slot. While he does not have an imposing X-receiver frame, Pearsall is a versatile weapon working inside, outside and even out of the backfield via jet sweeps. To further highlight his versatility, Pearsall led the Florida Gators in punt return yards in his final collegiate season.
Cons
Ricky Pearsall displayed versatility throughout his collegiate career but did thrive most as a slot and move receiver. While Pearsall is able to play outside on the line of scrimmage, he can struggle with more physical defensive backs. Pearsall is able to play through physicality but it is one thing that is exploitable by opposing defenses.
Pearsall surprised some, including myself, by running a 4.41 40-yard dash; however, the surprise comes when the play speed does not seem to reflect such hurry. Watching his collegiate film, Pearsall is not winning with his speed but that could very well be more a compliment to his route running, awareness and hands.
Summary
Ricky Pearsall had modest production with limited opportunities in his first two years playing at Arizona State. In his Junior season, Pearsall took a huge step forward and parlayed that to another two promising seasons at the University of Florida.
Ricky Pearsall finished his final collegiate season top-10 in receptions and receiving yards among SEC pass-catchers. Further, Pearsall led the Gators in receptions, receiving yards and punt return yards. Also notable is Pearsall’s usage in the backfield via jet sweeps, which had him score one TD in all but one of his five seasons, with two in his last season.
As far as rookie rankings Pearsall is my WR-10 with room to move up depending on landing spot and draft capital. A few landing spots considering fit and opportunity include the Pittsburgh Steelers, Cincinnati Bengals and New England Patriots. If you cannot tell, Pearsall is one of “my guys” at the receiver position who I think can thrive as both an NFL receiver and a top-36 fantasy football receiver.
Strengths
- Strong Hands & Spectacular Catch Ability
- Innovative Route Runner, Especially in Intermediate Routes
- Versatility Playing At Each Receiver Spot (Despite Thriving As Slot & Flanker)
Concerns
- Okay Through Physical Coverage
- Build Up Speed Despite 4.41 40-Yard Dash
2024 Dynasty Rookie Draft Projection: Late 2nd Round Pick
Ideal Role: Versatile But Mostly As Move/Flanker Receiver
Player Comp: Adam Thielen & Rashard Higgins
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